Caring and Sharing

Supporting Scripture:

"Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, "Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You drink? And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? And when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You? And the King will answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me."   Matthew 25:37-40"

Purpose:

This ministry exists to provide benevolent assistance in the areas of food, clothing, financial aid and other special needs. In accordance with Scripture (Galatians 6:10), members of the congregation and of our brotherhood are given priority over the community and the world at large. Requests for assistance will be considered in light of the individuals available resources and the church's resources to meet the specific need.

General Description:

Encourage congregational participation in activities and programs that promote a heart of compassion in the congregation and serve our community. Screen and evaluate requests for assistance. Offer assistance to our congregational family, our friends, and the community at large in times of emergency, even when assistance has not been requested.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the church pantry and keep it well stocked. Distribute household goods and pantry items to those in need.
• Oversee the Feed My Sheep ministry effort in Camden.
• Oversee the Trenton ministry effort.
• Screen and evaluate requests for financial assistance.
• Accept requests and provide Camperships, so needy children can attend Camp Manatawny.
• Be proactive in times of disaster, such as floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, etc.; offer assistance even before assistance has been requested.
• Encourage congregational participation in activities and programs that promote a heart of compassion in the congregation and serve our community.
• Financially support and periodically visit Timothy Hill Children's Ranch.
• Continue the Holiday Food Basket and Gifts distribution. Plan a special-emphasis Sunday before Thanksgiving to promote the need for pantry items during Bible Classes, Junior Worship, and/or adult worship services.
• Support under-developed countries through Manna International. This collection has traditionally been gathered on the first Sunday in June.
• Oversee needs for meals and luncheons.
• Coordinate funeral luncheons for our members who are not part of a LIFE group. (LIFE group leaders will handle meals for those in their LIFE groups.)
• Coordinate and deliver meals to members with special needs. More fully develop a Casserole Ministry for shut-ins.